For someone managing a fleet of vehicles or a one-person shop servicing whoever comes through the door, or the passionate weekend warrior looking at unexpected repairs, the cost of the whole engine is not one to take lightly.
Buying a new or rebuilt engine can be one of the most expensive parts of car ownership, with replacement engines costing owners from a little over £1,000 for a small four-cylinder to £10,000 or more for high-end vehicles or high-performance builds. What accounts for this vast disparity in pricing, and how can you trust the price you’re offered is a fair one?
What do we mean by a “Complete Engine”?
A complete engine usually defines a long block or complete assembly with things like the head, cam, valves, block, pistons and crank, among others. Usually, other accessory components are not included, like alternators or starter motors. This is often everything you need to start the car. These engines generally fall into three categories.
- New engines – fresh from the factory. These will last the longest, be backed by the best warranty, and be the most expensive.
- Remanufactured – rebuilt to factory specs and using new parts. The best balance between cost and peace of mind
- Used – typically pulled from a car and resold. The cheapest full engine you can get, but can also be a huge risk.
Price determination
Several factors will determine the actual amount you pay.
- Engine size and configuration: V6 engines and V8s typically cost more than four-cylinder engines.
- Brand and quality: OEM engines will usually cost more but are usually more reliable.
- Engine condition: high mileage or unknown condition used engines carry the most risk.
- Shipping and location: Import costs and locations can add 20-30%
- Engine installation: Labour, fluids, ECU flashing can cost you thousands.
- Market demand: Engine shortages can lead to inflation and higher prices.
Typical price ranges
- Economy cars/small engines: £1500+ for new or factory-refurbished, four-cylinder models
- Medium-sized sedan: £3000+ for six-cylinder models or diesels
- Performance car or luxury car: £8000+ for a V8, hybrid, imported or turbocharged models
These figures align with ONS reports on vehicle maintenance and repair costs that highlight how inflation and supply pressures push prices higher. Remanufactured engines usually shave 20–40% off the price of new. A good-condition used unit might be even cheaper, but only if thoroughly inspected.
How to get the best deal
A smart buyer doesn’t just look at the sticker price. Here are proven ways to stretch your budget:
- Compare quotes from multiple suppliers rather than settling for the first option.
- Check warranties carefully—solid coverage is worth paying extra for.
- Ask for documentation like mileage records and rebuild receipts, especially on used or remanufactured units.
- Negotiate on shipping and installation bundles—logistics can make or break your budget.
- Rely on trusted platforms such as https://eccoparts.eu/en/352-complete-engines, where you can access a range of options with transparent details.
Risks to watch out for
Be wary of vague seller claims, missing documentation, or units advertised at prices that seem “too good to be true.” Part swapping, mismatched components, and dubious warranties can turn a bargain into a liability.
Final takeaways
By understanding these drivers and applying smart buying strategies, you can move beyond simply asking “how much?” to finding true value—balancing cost, reliability, and long-term performance.
